Katherine Lake Trail

Katherine Lake Trail in Maple Ridge, British Columbia is a long, quiet grind that rewards people who like big days on their feet and don’t mind some solitude. At 23.7 km with about 590 m of elevation gain, it’s rated challenging more for distance and commitment than for extreme steepness, and most hikers will be out here for around six hours.

The route is an out-and-back that slowly works its way through classic coastal forest, with stretches of mossy trees, roots, and occasional muddy patches depending on recent rain. Views are more about deep woods, creek crossings, and the feeling of being far from town than wide-open panoramas, with a few higher points offering glimpses over the Maple Ridge backcountry and surrounding ridges.

Current reports describe Katherine Lake Trail as quiet and lightly trafficked, so don’t expect much company and plan to be self-sufficient. The distance adds up, so bring plenty of water, food, and layers, and start early to avoid racing daylight, especially outside midsummer. The trail can be slick in fall and winter, snow can linger at higher spots in early spring, and dogs are not allowed, so plan your day around that and treat this as a serious full-day outing rather than a casual stroll.